Bobby Wellins and Ronnie Scott’s All Stars roll up for Rottingdean Jazz Fest

Programmed by Rottingdean Arts, the 11-concerts over the weekend will feature headline performances from Scottish sax great Bobby Wellins (pictured), the fiery post-bopping Ronnie Scott’s All Stars, led by pianist James Pearson, and legendary jazz bassist Herbie Flowers. Wellins will open the festival on Friday 22 August with a performance at The Plough Inn, Rottingdean, joined by his band featuring drummer Spike Wells, pianist Roderick Hart, bassist Paul Whitten and vocalist Imogen Mayall.

The festival continues with a lunchtime performance by the Roderick Hart Trio at the Queen Vic, followed by an evening concert at the Village Hall from the Dixieland Stompers, Bex Jazz Duo and Brighton Big Band all on Saturday 23 August. Further daytime gigs take place on Sunday 24 August with the Bex Jazz Duo at the Beyond Design Café and Julian Nicholas and Roderick Hart Trio at the Rottingdean Terraces Stage at 3pm.

Renowned bassist Herbie Flowers performs with his Music Box band at the Village Hall, presenting their take on the music of George Gershwin and Dave Brubeck. The bank holiday Monday sees the Mark Bassey Band plays Basie perform at the Terraces Stage from 3pm while the festival closes out at the Village Hall with the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Bandleader and virtuoso pianist James Pearson will present the Ronnie Scott’s Story through humourous stories and compelling music covering the club’s 50 years of history.

– Mike Flynn

For more info go to John Coltrane - In The Temple of Tranewww.rottingdeanjazzfestival.ticketsource.co.uk